Australia promotes cosmetic surgery holidays

The breast enlargement ambassador of Australia has started a campaign to lure foreigners to Australia for their surgery.

Today Tonight reported Brooke Stevenson, who herself has underwent 144 procedures, was recently appointed as implant spokesperson and is headlining the campaign which is expected to increase procedures in Australia by a third from American patients.

The procedures cost about the same as a US breast enlargement when the added bonus of a two-week long holiday in Australia is included in the price.

Many surgeons also believe the Australian implant techniques are superior to the traditional American procedures.

Saline implants are widely used in the US while new "gummy bear gel" implants are used in Australia, which has a better record than saline for implant rejection.

Stuart Cowen, director of the Australian Tourism Development Association said he is thrilled with the push for American medical tourists from the cosmetic surgery industry.

"They can't go to Asia obviously and feel as comfortable as they would in Australia and it's a fantastic thing that they can come to the Gold Coast, take advantage of their exchange rate have a holiday at the same time and go home enhanced," he added.